20-20-20-20 Tenderloin (Beef)

⏱ 80 mins 🍽 6-8 serving(s) 🏷 Steak

This classic beef tenderloin recipe originates from David Letterman's mother, who reserved it for special events. The method involves a distinctive sequence of four 20-minute stages, including resting, to achieve a perfectly cooked roast. It is seasoned simply with fresh garlic and herbs, and is traditionally served with a Bordelaise mushroom sauce. The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 80 minutes, yielding 6 to 8 servings.

20-20-20-20 Tenderloin (Beef)

Ingredients

  • 3 -4 lbs beef tenderloin
  • 3 garlic cloves
  • 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, finely minced
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, finely minced

Method

  1. Take the beef tenderloin out of the fridge.
  2. Rub the surface of the meat with the garlic cloves, then coat it with the minced rosemary and thyme, avoiding any salt.
  3. Leave the seasoned tenderloin to stand at room temperature for 20 minutes.
  4. Heat your oven to 475 degrees F, ensuring the broiler pan is inside as it preheats.
  5. Put the tenderloin onto the hot pan and immediately lower the oven temperature to 375 degrees F. Cook for 20 minutes.
  6. Turn the oven down to 325 degrees F and continue roasting for a further 20 minutes.
  7. Take the pan from the oven, cover the meat loosely with foil, and allow it to rest for 20 minutes before carving.

Nutrition (per serving)

Sodium134100 mg

Recipe details

CategorySteak
AuthorOolala